Electric heaters are extremely practical, as they can be easily moved from one place to another, they are safer than gas heaters, and their price is relatively economical compared to other heating systems. That’s why they are usually the best-selling ones every season when the cold weather starts to be felt.
However, it is important to take into account a series of safety measures to fully enjoy the heat from our heater without endangering anything or anyone. Above all, it is necessary to occasionally check the condition of the connections, as a fire could occur.
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Electrical risks related to electric heaters
This, which may seem too exaggerated, is one of the main causes of fires related to electric heaters, so it should not be taken lightly.
A poorly connected cable, a sparking plug, or a fault in the power supply can cause an accident that ends up creating a very serious danger. They can also cause direct damage by touching the heater if the cable is in contact with any of the metal parts and is not properly insulated. That’s why it is necessary to frequently check the condition of the heater’s connections, as well as the plugs where we connect it. The power must be appropriate for the device, and if possible, it is advisable to install an overvoltage protection device to protect the heater and prevent damage from a short circuit.
We must also be very careful when unplugging the heater. We should never pull the cable to disconnect it from the power supply, as this can damage the internal connections, even stripping the cable inside and putting ourselves in danger the next time we plug it in.
Do not use electric heaters for things they are not prepared for
When it comes to using the heater for something other than warming ourselves, such as putting clothes on top to dry faster, we can only do it with electric heaters that are prepared for it. We should never cover the ventilation grilles, as it can cause overheating and the clothes may catch fire, resulting in an uncontrolled fire.
If you are unsure if your heater can be used to dry clothes, check the instruction manual. If there is nothing indicating it, it is better not to do it to avoid potential danger.
Other safety guidelines to avoid problems with electric heaters
The heater cable should be kept away from any heat source, including the heater itself. We must not allow the heat to touch it as it would melt the material covering the wires and could cause a short circuit.
As for other flammable items such as furniture or curtains, we must also keep them away from direct heat. If an electric heater is too close to furniture or a curtain, the material can melt or burn even without fire, causing complete damage.
Following these safety guidelines with our electric heater will allow us to enjoy a pleasant and cozy warmth.